For over half a century, Packard represented the pinnacle of American automotive luxury. Founded in 1899, the brand became synonymous with elegance, innovation, and engineering excellence. Its iconic grille, refined interiors, and signature ornaments, like the Goddess of Speed, made every Packard a symbol of prestige. Though the marque ceased production in 1958, its influence continues to inspire automotive enthusiasts and coachbuilders around the world.
Packard Excellence by JB Classic & Bespoke brings to life a vision decades in the making. This one-off coachbuilt sedan fuses historic Packard cues with modern craftsmanship, creating a luxury car that could have existed only in the imagination. From the iconic grille to the folding Goddess of Speed mascot, every element reflects thoughtful homage.
Heritage Meets Modern Coachbuilding
The Packard Excellence pays tribute to the legendary American brand while incorporating inspiration from the Facel Vega Excellence. JB Classic & Bespoke, the Dutch coachbuilder, collaborated with CinovarA Design to craft a bespoke body that respects Packard’s timeless design language. Every panel was built from scratch, and details such as headlights and stainless steel trim are entirely hand-formed.
Suicide Doors and Signature Details
One of the most challenging elements was creating functional rear-hinged coach doors. Engineers developed a unique hinge system and custom stainless steel handles, delivering elegance without compromising strength. The iconic Goddess of Speed ornament folds discreetly into the grille, maintaining classic Packard styling while adding modern convenience.
A Modern Luxury Foundation
Built on a second-generation Bentley Flying Spur, the Packard Excellence combines heritage aesthetics with contemporary performance. While specifics on the engine remain private, the Flying Spur’s V8 or W12 foundations ensure effortless power and refinement, letting this modern Packard drive as impressively as it looks.
Meticulous Craftsmanship
JB Classic & Bespoke dedicated 17,000 hours to perfecting the Packard Excellence. Every surface, line, and contour underwent meticulous attention. From hand-formed chrome trim to a completely re-engineered body, the car exemplifies what coachbuilding can achieve in the 21st century.
A Unique Blend of Influence
The design is not a direct recreation of historic Packards but a thoughtful reinterpretation. It incorporates Packard’s signature grille, a nod to the Facel Vega Excellence, and bespoke cues that give the car a distinct identity. The result is a seamless blend of past inspiration and modern craftsmanship.
Summary
Packard Excellence by JB Classic & Bespoke is a modern tribute to a storied automotive legacy. Handcrafted from the ground up, it blends Packard heritage, bespoke coachbuilding, and contemporary performance. This closer look highlights the craftsmanship, suicide doors, Goddess of Speed ornament, and Dutch ingenuity that make it one of the most remarkable modern luxury sedans.
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Source: jbclassicbespoke.com